Semi-DIY medium/low profile bed rack

[Daverick]

So I set out on this quest to make a bed rack that could be installed simultaneously with a tonneau cover.

First I picked up the Elevate TS Rails that come with 4 cleats included. The Truxedo website sells for $190 but I found it new on Amazon for $135.

Then I found a set of 74" crossbars with towers intended to be used as a roof rack for cars with factory rails for $50 on Facebook Marketplace. I cut 10 ½" off of each crossbar and mounted them to the cleats from the Elevate system.

Lastly I picked up the HaulMaster cargo carrier from Harbor Freight for $100 and threw it up top.

All in for under $300 when the Ford option is over $500 and does not fit with a tonneau (or include a cargo carrier).

Removal is as easy as loosening the acorn nuts on the cleats and sliding the whole assembly off of the TS Rails.

This option actually works with or without the cover. The only downside is that I can't fold open the tonneau with it installed, but that's what arms and hockey sticks are for.

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[Smack]

Great picks!
How did you screwdown the rails,the bed is kind of narrow inside (2.7 CM, about an inch) did you drill through the upper and lower steel body?
What did you use to seal the screw holes?
Is this a 6 pack or 12 pack job?

 

[Daverick]

Great picks!
How did you screwdown the rails,the bed is kind of narrow inside (2.7 CM, about an inch) did you drill through the upper and lower steel body?
What did you use to seal the screw holes?
Is this a 6 pack or 12 pack job?

The rails require no drilling. If used without a tonneau the kit includes clamps. If used with a tonneau the rails are pinned in place by the tonneau rails... Here's a little snip from the install guide:

I'd recommend a 6-pack. 1 for the job and 5 for admiring it once you're done.

 

[Hot Runr Guy]

Excellent write-up, thank you!

HRG

 

[Clive]

I was considering a similar set up. How are the the cross bar feet attached to the cleats? Do they just clamp around and tighten? How easily can you remove so you can access the tonneau?

 

[docsmith1511]

So I set out on this quest to make a bed rack that could be installed simultaneously with a tonneau cover.

First I picked up the Elevate TS Rails that come with 4 cleats included. The Truxedo website sells for $190 but I found it new on Amazon for $135.

Then I found a set of 74" crossbars with towers intended to be used as a roof rack for cars with factory rails for $50 on Facebook Marketplace. I cut 10 ½" off of each crossbar and mounted them to the cleats from the Elevate system.

Lastly I picked up the HaulMaster cargo carrier from Harbor Freight for $100 and threw it up top.

All in for under $300 when the Ford option is over $500 and does not fit with a tonneau (or include a cargo carrier).

Removal is as easy as loosening the acorn nuts on the cleats and sliding the whole assembly off of the TS Rails.

This option actually works with or without the cover. The only downside is that I can't fold open the tonneau with it installed, but that's what arms and hockey sticks are for.

How does this affect your hybrid?

 

[docsmith1511]

How does this affect your hybrid?

Mpg change?

 

[Daverick]

I was considering a similar set up. How are the the cross bar feet attached to the cleats? Do they just clamp around and tighten? How easily can you remove so you can access the tonneau?

Rubber straps snap into place and tighten down with an Allen wrench.

With or without the cargo carrier my preference would be to loosen the cleats and slide them off the rails.

 

[Daverick]

How does this affect your hybrid?

Mpg change?

I haven't had it on long enough to say; completed this between Sunday and now.

I've been averaging around 50MPG up til now so not too concerned with the possible 1 or 2 that I may lose. Also I figure I gained 1 or 2 from the tonneau versus an empty bed so it's just a wash in my mind.

 

[docsmith1511]

I haven't had it on long enough to say; completed this between Sunday and now.

I've been averaging around 50MPG up til now so not too concerned with the possible 1 or 2 that I may lose. Also I figure I gained 1 or 2 from the tonneau versus an empty bed so it's just a wash in my mind.

Thanks for the reply, unfortunately still waiting for my Mav ordered 8-2-21 est delivery 10-27-22. Wow, 50 mpg, amazing

 

[respi133]

great looking low cost diy - you set out with a goal and nailed it I'd say thanks for posting and providing so much detail that's always awesome to read everyone's thinking and mindset when looking to upgrade these cool little trucks

 

[Smack]

I just ordered the rail kit.

Thank You So Much for the GREAT Write-up!

 

[Smack]

Did you use anything between the rail and the bed and rail and the rail?
silicone? something to secure it a little more?

 

[Smack]

Oh and sorry about last Sunday, Vikes...

 

[Daverick]

Did you use anything between the rail and the bed and rail and the rail?
silicone? something to secure it a little more?

I didn't use it, but the kit came with a variety of 3M tapes including a very thin one that would be perfect for where you're describing, probably helps with waterproofing. Otherwise the clamp does the job for me as far as security is concerned.

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